The Evaluating and Linking Treatment Process Program is now accepting applications for a major research project that connects climate projections with water quality changes and downstream treatment impacts. The program will develop predictive frameworks, interactive tools and guidance to help utilities plan for climate-driven shifts in source water quality. Up to $250,000 in funding is available, with applications due November 20, 2025.
The Water Research Foundation (WRF) has launched a new funding call to support research that links climate change projections with expected shifts in source water quality and the resulting impacts on water treatment systems. This project aims to help water utilities anticipate climate-driven challenges and plan long-term system improvements.
Climate change is intensifying extreme weather patterns -- storms, droughts, flooding and shifting rainfall. These disruptions directly affect surface and groundwater quality, creating new operational and cost pressures for utilities.
Understanding these impacts allows water agencies to:
The funded project will:
A state-of-the-science review of climate impacts on:
Utility-focused studies linking climate variables to:
To connect climate projections with changes in source water quality and treatment system impacts.
The expected duration is 24 months.
A literature review, predictive models, assessments of monitoring tools, case studies and final recommendations.
Researchers behind schedule on existing WRF projects without approved no-cost extensions.
All proposals must be submitted before 3:00 p.m. MT on November 20, 2025.
This WRF program is a significant opportunity for researchers to advance climate-water modeling science and provide utilities with essential tools for resilience planning. Teams with expertise in climate modeling, hydrology, water quality and treatment process engineering are strongly encouraged to apply ahead of the November 2025 deadline.